Bruce R. Whiting, Ph.D.

DEPARTMENT OF Radiology
Keywords: CT, medical imaging, medical physics, optimization, image processing

The contribution of diagnostic imaging to modern health care delivery has increased with the incorporation of advances in electronic technology. Given the complexity of diagnostic procedures and image formation processes, continued improvements require a systems approach to understand and optimize the whole radiology “imaging chain” (acquisition, transmission, storage, display). Dr. Whiting’s research interests are the application of imaging science and medical physics to digital systems, particularly computed radiography (CR) and computed tomography (CT), with the goal of optimizing the image information content relevant for clinical diagnostic interpretation.

Research areas include the following:
- X-ray image acquisition. Models of radiographic and CT image formation; statistics of imaging processes; metrics for system characterization and analysis (DQE, MTF, NPS); measurements of screen/film, film digitizer and storage phosphor (CR) device performance; radiation transfer and optics of intensifying screens; analysis of projection signals from varying CT scanner geometries.
- Image processing. Data compression of digital medical images; CT reconstruction algorithms with improved quantitative accuracy and reduced artifacts.
- Image display. Characterization of hardcopy and CRT images; display degradation mechanisms; human visual system response; display compensation techniques.
- Clinical imaging applications. CT-based virtual colonoscopy; high resolution 3D imaging of cochlear implants; CT imaging in the presence of metal implants for brachytherapy treatment planning; monitoring osteoporosis from bone mass density measurements with dental radiography; radiation dose reduction techniques for CT and pediatric radiography.